Photomatrix, Photoshop, Capture NX, freeware programmes. And many other things. I'm a little confused by the extensive range of software out there, and the overlapping functions of each- from non-intrusive RAW editing, to image manipulation, to programmes that specify in HDR images and the best all round programmes for people who don't have hundreds of pounds to spend on software.

I was wondering if anyone could give a brief outline of the main players, and perhaps a sentence or two on each about their Pros and Cons. Obviously theres a lot of subjective opinion, but I'm sure some general outlines by forum regulars would be useful for me and others!

Thanks Graham, that's great! One question- is Photoshop good for working with RAW files? Or do Adobe have a separate programme that is best for RAW images- altering white balance etc etc.

Cheers!

You can edit RAW's in Photoshop but for all the brand new cameras hitting the shelves, you need Photoshop CS3 to make use of the RAW functionality. It's Adobe's less-than-subtle way to get people to upgrade their perfectly fine working edition of CS2.

I still use CS2 but in combination with Lightroom. So I import into Lightroom then from LR, export into CS2. Unfortunately, this involves LR converting the files to TIFF format first which takes up a lot of space but yea, it can be done.

My copy of CS2 doesn't support the D80's NEF files. Maybe an update will help but I'm happy to use the above method.

If altering white balance is all you're after, LR, or an equivalent program will suffice. I'm sure there are many more than just LR but thats what I'm familiar with.

Alex,

No! Capture NX is waaay more advanced than Picture Project in terms of image editing. Give the trial a go!